In 2025, SK hynix is continuing this practice by appointing thirteen DEs, one HE, five Masters, and two Honored Masters. The program is garnering significant attention this year as Heeyoul Lee, the company’s inaugural HE, has become the first to continue working beyond the official retirement age. To find out more about the initiative, the SK hynix Newsroom sat down with HE Kyoonhyoung Kim and Honored Masters Youngdae Kwon and Jeongil Shin to gain insights into their appointments and visions.

Appointment of Top Technical Experts: A Shared Sense of Pride & Responsibility

At SK hynix, HEs and Honored Masters are esteemed technical experts who pass down their field expertise to junior engineers and provide solutions to complex challenges. The company systemized the Technical Expert Career Track by introducing the HE and Honored Master appointment programs in 2020 and 2022, respectively, building on the previously established DE and Master track. Under this framework, the company selects the most skilled and experienced individuals as DEs and Masters. Only DEs and Masters with the highest technical skills advance to HEs and Honored Masters, respectively.

The rigorous selection process for HEs and Honored Masters involves evaluating candidates’ technical capabilities, reputations, and executive assessments. Therefore, only those with the highest technical proficiency are chosen to continue research and development beyond retirement age. Reflecting on this prestigious recognition, Kim, Kwon, and Shin expressed both immense pride and a deep sense of responsibility.

“It’s an honor to see my dream become a reality,” Kim said. “While my responsibility is greater, I see this as a great opportunity to do more important work. As an HE, I will do my best to set a model example for the Technical Expert Career Track.”

“I’m proud to be recognized for the hard work I’ve shared with my colleagues,” Kwon stated. “I will not only comprehensively document my knowledge in whitepapers but also pass down my expertise, and grow together with the team as an Honored Master.”

“This recognition gives me pride in my work,” Shin revealed. “I will continue to focus on improving my capabilities, sharing my knowledge, and fulfilling my responsibilities as an Honored Master, striving to be a model member.”

The three gurus plan to continue leveraging their roles to make a broader impact. Kim aims to establish technology roadmaps and explore new business models while pioneering future technologies and mentoring junior engineers. Kwon hopes to collaborate with colleagues to solve complex challenges while documenting his unique know-how to train future Honored Masters. Meanwhile, in fulfilling his role as an Honored Master, Shin will deepen his knowledge of lithography¹ equipment, including manufacturer-related expertise. This will help achieve early stabilization of new equipment and boost company knowledge about the field and programming applications.

¹Lithography: A process used in semiconductor manufacturing to transfer intricate patterns onto a surface, typically a silicon wafer. Lithography can involve the use of deep ultraviolet (DUV) and extreme ultraviolet (EUV) wavelengths.

Fostering Innovative Achievements Through Decades of Expertise

The journeys of Kim, Kwon, and Shin to the pinnacle of their careers involve decades of innovation and achievements. Over the years, they have honed their expertise, becoming highly skilled in their fields while garnering significant accomplishments along the way.

Kim has a strong passion for modeling and achieving real-world results

Since joining the company in 1992, Kim has accumulated 33 years of experience in modeling research. As a physics major, he developed a strong interest in modeling after joining the company as it involves analyzing device characteristics using physical equations and computer simulations. He took immense satisfaction in seeing his simulation results align perfectly with real-world product performance, which further fueled his passion.

“One standout moment came in 2014 when I successfully developed a proprietary SPICE² model despite the challenges of maintaining modeling accuracy amid device miniaturization,” said Kim. “This model remains in use today, which gives me an indescribable sense of accomplishment.”

²Simulation Program with Integrated Circuit Emphasis (SPICE): A computer simulation model used to model and analyze electrical circuits, helping engineers predict how a circuit will behave before it is built.

Kim’s development of a leading SPICE model significantly impacted his evaluation for the Technical Expert Career Track, establishing his reputation as an expert in the field.

Kwon has relished tackling technical challenges throughout his career

For over 30 years, Kwon has tackled countless technical challenges, finding the most fulfillment in solving difficult problems. He compared the thrill of resolving unsolved issues to cracking a cold case. His proficiency was especially evident in the localization of very high temperature³ (VHT) carbon equipment, one of his key achievements.

³Very high temperature (VHT): Refers to operating conditions that significantly exceed standard temperature ranges. VHT devices can perform efficiently in elevated temperatures due to the inclusion of heat-resistant materials.

“For a year, a critical issue in this project remained unsolved, pushing it to the brink of failure,” Kwon revealed. “In response, we formed a united team with process engineers, equipment specialists, and partner companies, working tirelessly to find a solution. Not only did we overcome the challenge, but we also gained industry recognition for our technological capabilities, securing exclusive rights in the process.”

Following this success, Kwon continued to make significant contributions by actively participating in a task force (TF) team which aimed to enhance equipment competitiveness. His efforts in establishing and standardizing various management systems further solidified his capabilities, ultimately leading him to achieve the prestigious title of Honored Master.

Shin taught himself various programming languages during his journey to becoming an Honored Master

As a young engineer, Shin’s passion for programming led him to explore game development. Over the years, he taught himself multiple programming languages including C, C++, and Python, building a knowledge base which would play a key role in his journey to becoming an Honored Master.

“Lithography equipment generates approximately 1 GB of data per hour, usually requiring manufacturer support for data analysis,” Shin said. “To streamline this process, I combined my domain knowledge with programming to develop an in-house lithography equipment analysis tool, enabling our team to analyze data independently and much more efficiently.”

Shin’s analysis tool greatly improved engineers’ workflow efficiency, leading him to earn the Honored Master title. His dedication to data analysis remains strong to this day as he still monitors three screens at once, searching for hidden insights within continuously updated datasets. He credits this technical acumen and unwavering passion as the secrets to his growth as an Honored Master.

Technical Excellence as a Foundation, Outstanding Reputation as the Key to the Top

As tech gurus, the three newly appointed experts have earned deep respect from their colleagues, a key factor in their selection as HEs and Honored Masters.

Kim’s colleagues at the 2025 Technical Experts Appointment Ceremony showing him support

Kim’s bond with his colleagues was particularly evident at his HE appointment ceremony as his coworkers held banners in his honor. When asked about the secret behind this strong relationship, he emphasized the importance of open and informal communication.

“Stepping into a new career path, I knew I had to set an example,” Kim stated. “More than anything, I made it a priority to continuously communicate with my colleagues. I made a conscious effort to actively participate in team events and engage with everyone on an equal footing.”

Kwon (image 1) and Shin (image 2) celebrating with colleagues at the 2025 Technical Experts Appointment Ceremony

Kwon attributed his strong reputation to always demonstrating exemplary behavior and prioritizing horizontal communication. “I treated every organizational challenge as my own, leading by example,” he revealed. “When working with others, I maintained a horizontal approach, listening carefully to different perspectives. To foster equal communication, I also obtained relevant certifications to deepen my understanding of data, allowing me to engage in more data-driven decision-making.”

Meanwhile, Shin pointed to his significant on-the-job experience as the foundation for his status at the company. “I simplified maintenance technology training by creating quizzes for junior engineers and always stepped in first when issues arose,” he explained. “I believe my approach as a mentor, which involves always sharing knowledge, and my extensive hands-on experience contributed to my positive evaluation.”

The three gurus, with their combined technical expertise and strong reputations, also shared their visions for the future:

• Kim: “My vision is to enhance simulation accuracy and share my knowledge to foster junior engineers who can internalize the company’s VWBE⁴ philosophy. At the same time, I will continue developing technology roadmaps and driving innovation.”
• Kwon: “With a commitment to ending on a high note, I see myself growing as a CVD⁵ expert while exploring new fields to become a pi-shaped⁶ talent. Additionally, I will document my knowledge in whitepapers and actively share my expertise through SKHU⁷ lectures.”
• Shin: “I will dedicate myself to continuous self-improvement to stay ahead in this fast-changing industry. With the skills I develop, I will carefully mentor junior engineers and communicate every detail.”

⁴Voluntarily, Willingly, Brain, Engagement (VWBE): SK Group’s management philosophy that emphasizes proactive and engaged thinking.
⁵Chemical vapor deposition (CVD): A method that deposits materials onto the wafer’s surface using a chemical reaction.
⁶Pi-shaped: Individuals who have deep expertise in two distinct areas (represented by the two vertical lines of the symbol for pi, π) and a broad understanding across multiple disciplines.
⁷SKHU (SK hynix University): SK hynix’s internal educational institute, offering structured technical and business training to enhance skills at all levels and boost the company’s competitiveness.

Advancing Technical Achievements After Retirement

Kim, Kwon, and Shin shared their final thoughts on the Technical Expert Career Track. “We have provided a blueprint for engineers and equipment maintenance team members to focus on developing their technical capabilities,” they said. “This initiative not only plays a central role in advancing and disseminating technology, but also serves as a driving force to break through growing technological limits.”

Expressing their gratitude, they added: “We are thankful that this initiative allows us to pass on our technical achievements to the next generation even after retirement.” Kim, who is approaching retirement age this year, remarked: “I am proud to have the opportunity to continue working even after reaching the retirement age. I am determined to help establish SK hynix as the global leader in modeling.”

(From first image) Kim, Kwon, and Shin express their appreciation for the Technical Expert Career Track

Finally, the three gurus shared advice for aspiring technical experts:

• Kim: “If you have passion and determination, anyone can become a technical expert. I encourage you to broaden your perspective, develop deeper insights, and challenge yourself with perseverance—all while maintaining good relationships with your colleagues.”
• Kwon: “Challenge yourself with difficult goals and make bold attempts to break the mold. Keep developing your skills consistently, communicate effectively with colleagues, and work with a courageous attitude under the VWBE philosophy.”
• Shin: “I became an Honored Master because I honed my programming skills early on. So, prepare diligently, even if no one recognizes your efforts. Opportunities come to those who are ready.”

Meanwhile, Heeyoul Lee, the inaugural HE and the first to continue working past retirement age, remains a mentor dedicated to passing on his know-how to the next generation.

At SK hynix, DEs, HEs, Masters, and Honored Masters are actively contributing to the growth of the company and strengthening its technical foundation. Lee, Kim, Kwon, and Shin are committed to continually advancing the company’s technological expertise and upholding their responsibilities as the top experts in their fields.

The post Meet the New Honored Engineers and Masters of 2025: The Technical Experts Looking Beyond Retirement at SK hynix first appeared on SK hynix Newsroom.

Check out the career opportunities which SK hynix intends to bring as part of our “Inside America” strategy.

The post A Day in the Life: Quality Semiconductor Jobs for Our Communities first appeared on SK hynix Newsroom.

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What’s most important to today’s jobseeker? Stock options? A snack bar? Or is it something beyond these increasingly common workplace benefits? As more and more young people join the workforce, the definition of an ideal workplace is changing.

By 2025 millennials alone will represent 75% of the global workforce and, once they finish school, Gen Z is hot on their heels. Both cohorts are making it clear to potential employers that the intangible elements of employment are an essential part of their decision-making process. They seek out corporations with business practices rooted in sustainability and office cultures that are tech-forward and collaborative.

In line with its commitment to the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), SK hynix made creating a sustainable and supportive work environment crucial to its ethos. SK hynix believes that its people are at the core of its success—when its people thrive, so does its business.

Inspiring the Next Generation of Hi-Gineers

Both Gen Z and millennials are pursuing more education than their older counterparts. In fact, in 2018, 57% of American 18- to 21-year-olds who completed high school were enrolled in post-secondary education. Coupling academic pursuits with an internship can enrich students’ learning experience and allow them to apply their theoretical knowledge in a work environment built for learning. Furthermore, various studies demonstrate a close positive relationship between internships and overall job satisfaction.

Under the patient and attentive gaze of seasoned professionals, students can get familiar with different roles and responsibilities—ensuring they are comfortable and confident entering the workforce in their chosen field. SK hynix is proud to provide students in semiconductor-related majors with an opportunity for hands-on experience through its internship program. Designed to educate, engage, and encourage the thinkers of tomorrow, the program establishes a strong base for students to expand their horizons.

SK hynix Memory Solutions America software engineer and former intern, SeungJin Kim notes, “The best benefit of working for SK hynix for me is that I am encouraged by my manager and team to develop my own career interests and explore specific areas of work that I find interesting or aligns with my career goals.”

To further the growth of junior team members, SK hynix also created the Junior Board to provide an avenue for members early in their careers to voice thoughts and opinions directly with senior staff members and executive team members. In addition, the company puts a strong focus on continued education, and, in 2020, members participated in an average of 74 hours of education each.

Members of the Competency Planning pictured at SK hynix University

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Established in 2017, SK hynix University (SKHU) offers specialized technical and business training to encourage members of all levels to continue strengthening their skills and the company’s competitiveness of the company. The structured system consists of twelve colleges and various departments and majors. Devoted to different business sectors and technologies, areas of study range from social value and leadership to AI and digital transformation.

Recently, the educational program has expanded its presence online with its mySUNI learning platform. The comprehensive site enables SK hynix members to set personalized careers goals and self-select the courses they enroll in.

The Pursuit of (Member) Happiness

Attracting and maintaining talent in the highly competitive semiconductor industry relies on a deep understanding of personnel and a constant desire to improve the workplace. More than 99.6% of SK hynix’s members work full-time, which, in addition to its extremely low 2.1% turnover rate, illustrates a stabilized workplace and a focus on member wellbeing.

Paul Palonsky, VP of Sales at SK hynix America Inc, shared, “The reason I have stayed at SK hynix all these years is that I am always—still to this day—able to find new challenges. On top of it all, I have the pleasure of working with such a great group of people who are equally dedicated to creating successful outcomes for the company and our customers.”

In the hopes of further optimizing happiness of SK hynix people, SK hynix completed extensive research as part of its “Happiness Culture Secretariat” with the help of the Seoul National University Center for Happiness Studies. Members documented their daily happiness levels, allowing SK hynix to understand member wellbeing from a unique, more personal perspective.

After reviewing the findings, SK hynix implemented a series of initiatives including the Happiness Design Group, Junior Board, and Leaders Board. These important programs aim to deliver on four of the UN’s SDGs, including decent work and economic growth, quality education, gender equality, and reduced inequalities.

The Happiness Design Group allows working parents and young women to design their workplace happiness collectively, positively influencing the work environment. The group finds opportunities to create dialogue amongst SK hynix people surrounding happiness and encourages experimentation to increase workplace satisfaction.

As a part of the program, SK hynix has been conducting trials to encourage a more positive work-life balance. In addition to establishing more opportunities for remote work and teleconferencing, the company is exploring increased support for returning parents, including 1-on-1 counseling and mentorship. At an organizational level, SK hynix has implemented a campaign which encourages members to depart the office early once each month to spend more time with their children.

With a rising interest in flexible and remote work, SK hynix introduced its Base Office in Bundang in March 2021. The flexible office, located approximately 25km southeast of Seoul, aims to reduce the challenges surrounding long commutes, household duties, urgent business, and much more. The Base Office seats 150 people and is located in an SK hynix building close to Jeongja Station, a public transportation hub.

Finally, Online communication tool (such as CUBE Messenger & HyTUBE) encourages innovation at any level. The online communication tool enables unbridled thinking and allows members to share ideas, hold discussions, and make honest proposals anonymously.

In today’s world, being gainfully employed means more than just receiving a paycheck. It’s about being provided opportunities to learn, having ideas not be bound by title and rank, and receiving the flexibility to work in the best way for you – the intangible “gains.” SK hynix understands the importance of member wellbeing and vows to continue to work in the best interest of its members of today and tomorrow.

The post Communication, Community, and Commitment: Why People Choose a Career at SK hynix first appeared on SK hynix Newsroom.